A Perfect Place for Your Need to Succeed

Always the ambitious one, no doubt you woke up this morning re-committed to advancing your career.

So now you just need the perfect platform to give you a leg up.

And, no, we’re not talking about that great pair of Jimmy Choo platform pee-toes you saw the other day.

When it comes to reaching new heights in business, a fantastic pair of heels is one thing. But you also need a big strong, supportive foundation to give you a boost.

Like the Forte Foundation.

Forte is a consortium of major corporations and top business schools dedicated to “substantially increasing” the number of women business leaders.

And their online resource center offers all sorts of smart tools to get you moving in the right direction – up.

Tune in to one of the free podcasts/videoblogs. Join the free Forte Network and connect with a community of powerful women. Or read some of the free articles offering inspiration in the Career Center, or a few of the Real Women, Real Stories, a collection of first hand stories and lessons learned.

Yes, Forte may be just the lift you’ve been looking for. After all, free, free, free resources means more money for shoes, shoes, shoes.

Vanity Fair Covers Funny Business

Oh no he didn’t!

That seemed to be the collective response last year when Vanity Fair trouble-maker-in-residence Christopher Hitchens devoted an entire column to the argument that women, well, just aren’t funny.

Hilarious.

Now, women are having the last laugh -- thanks to writer Alessandra Staley’s April cover story, appropriately titled “Who Says Women Aren’t Funny?.”

Staley’s run-down of the reigning “queens of comedy”—including Tina Fey, Amy Poehler, and Wanda Sykes—is a refreshing rebuttal that proves once and for all that there are plenty of talented ladies who can run laps around the likes of Dane Cook.

The article is on stands now, or you can read it online. Plus catch web-exclusives like interviews with Tina Fey, Jenna Fischer from “The Office,” Amy Sedaris, and more.

And the behind-the-scenes “Girls Behaving Badly” video of Annie Leibovitz’s shoot with the Queens of Comedy.

One quote sure to slap a grin on your face? Tina Fey’s response to the women-aren’t-funny flak:

“You still hear it. It’s just a lot easier to ignore.”

Hmmm...funny how that sentiment works perfectly at work, too.

Strong on Style for Modern Women Warriors

You might be surprised to learn that you have more in common with a gladiator than you think—and no, not just because you love watching Russell Crowe in a short skirt.

After all, you certainly know a thing or two about going into battles and coming out victorious.

Then there’s your taste in footwear, like the updated gladiator-style sandals you’ve been ogling lately.

Strappy and strong, they’re just the thing to wear whether you’re fighting to the death, or just over whose turn it is to make a coffee run.

Try these sandals to win some maximum (and Maximus) style points:

Nine West Gaulla: Gain some height on your opponent with this shoe’s statuesque 3-inch wooden heel. Available in taupe, dark brown, and black.

Newport-News T-Strap Sandal: The gladiator style gets a trendy summer makeover with this colorful modified sandal.

Dolce Vita Tahiti Gladiator Wedge: The gladiator goes glam in this sexy shoe, which is better suited for the club than the Coliseum.

Steve Madden Batik: Beautiful beaded discs inspired by ancient times give these slick leather sandals a whiff of antiquity.

Stunning Looks – In No Time at All

Yes, it’s time to update your Spring ‘fashion that works at work’ wardrobe.

But after spending 45-plus hours in a suit, the last thing you want to do is spend your entire weekend trying on—you guessed it—more suits.

So don’t.

Instead, log on to one of the hottest online style channels in the business: AnnTaylor Outfits, where your eye for style meets your need for speed.

Looking for a little inspiration for your workweek chic? Visit the Relaxed Work Outfits to assemble a stunning look from head to toe.

In pursuit of something sophisticated that will take the boardroom by storm? The AT Collection Outfits will let everyone know you settle for nothing than the very best.

Planning to get promoted? The Special Occasions Outfits has just the thing to tell the world you’re definitely the right woman for the job.

And to see how you’ll look as you strut up on stage to accept your next super- achievement award? Click to watch videos of the Spring ‘08 Ann Taylor collection coming down the runway.

Now, what to do with all that time you’ve saved? Why, drinks with the girls, of course. Cheers!

The Fastest Way to More Clients (And More Shopping)

If getting more clients than you can handle is the name of your game, then keep reading. (If not, take the rest of the day off and go shopping.)

For those of you who opted to stay with us, no doubt you’re looking for the fastest, easiest way to get more clients. (That way you can be done with business, and get back to more important things. Like shopping.)

Robert Middleton, marketing coach extraordinaire, has a free Marketing Plan Start Up Kit. (And for us who do business the Uptown way, free things are particularly useful because they conserve our cash for more important things. Like shopping.)

Middleton’s kit teaches us how to attract tons of clients by playing “marketing ball.”

See, most people don’t play the game the way they should. Oh, sure, they get on the field of business, do some networking and calling and mailing, but not a whole lot happens. Why? They don’t reeeally know how to play the game.

So get cracking, hit a home run, knock it out of the park. Because more clients equals more moolah. And more moolah means more shopping.

Don’t you love it when a plan comes together?

P.S. Be sure to check out Middleton’s blog, including very cool marketing guru blog links from Seth Godin, Jill Konrath and others.

You’ll Be Charged Up About This

Whether you’re heading to Tokyo on business or just ducking out to the place down the street for sushi, you’re not the sort of girl to say sayonara to your BlackBerry or iPod.

Leave it behind? We know. Your right-hand gadget goes everywhere with you.

After all, as an in-the-moment and of-the-moment girl, when it comes to cool technology, you’re seriously committed.

So you’ll appreciate knowing about the Smart AC 120-watt inverter USB.

What it lacks in style, it more than makes up for in usefulness.

This tiny, on-the-go power inverter makes it easy to charge an iPod, BlackBerry, cell phone, digital camera – even your notebook laptop -- using a car lighter or airplane power port.

Set it up, and you’ll be free to talk or work for hours -- up to 24 hours continuously.

Now that’s just the sort of commitment smart girls like us are always looking for.

Feeding Your Beautiful Mind, Affordably

Fabulosity comes at a cost.

To be the dazzling, put-together person you are, there’s plenty you pay for: a well-honed wardrobe, membership at the yoga studio, and weekly mani-pedis, to name a few.

But here’s way to keep your mind as sharp as a stiletto heel, without spending a dime:

PaperBackSwap.com.

It’s an online group of over one thousand readers who offer up books they’ve already read (and not just paperbacks), so that others can have them for free.

Sort of like a high-tech book swap. Or an online library with no due dates.

Here’s how it works:

Sign up and list 10 page-turners you’re willing to share. You get two credits ASAP, as a club-warming gift. With your two credits, you can request two free books right away. When a person likes one of your books, you receive an email request for it. Mail the book, paying for the shipping cost (about two bucks, and -- voila! -- you receive another credit.

So pull out all those novels you picked up at airport gift shops, and start feeding your beautiful mind -- for free.

Spring Shoe Style Alert:
Stacked Is In

Stacked and sexy.

No, no, no, it’s not what you’re thinking.

Of course, we’re speaking of our new crush on Spring’s totally fab sandals with stacked heels.

Nothing will complement your new floral frock, tribal-inspired tunic or designer denim better than a pair of spring-fresh sandals.

Check out a few favorites, bound to fuel your footwear addiction.

Say hello kitty with the J. Renee Ridge leopard print black patent short stacked heel sandal. The padded sock liner provides just the padding a sure-footed cat like you needs.

Everyone becomes a Foxy Mama when slipping into the Seychelles leather platform T-strap of the same name. The eye-catching teal hue is divine, while the peep-toe, cutout details and ultra-cool wooden stacked heel add to her standout status.

You'll always travel in first-class in Coach's Lalo sandals. Stacked wooden heels serve as the foundation for these modern beauties, with striking turnlock detailing.

BCBG Max Azria Terriel sandals are gems for the feet. The glam slingback thongs put a dazzling luxe twist on the gladiator sandal with a T-strap made of rhinestone links. Both the silver metallic crinkle leather and deep brown leather shades feature low, round stacked heels in chocolate-colored wood. Yum.

Bottom line: Go stacked or go home.

Fashion Honor Roll: A Perfect A For Caché

Grab your No. 2 pencils, gals. It’s time for a little quiz.

Q. If you were a flower, you’d be:

a.) A wallflower
b.) A big, bloomin’ sunflower
c.) What about my allergies?

If you answered “b,” we’ve got the perfect online boutique to help you stay on the style honor roll.

Meet Caché, the fashionably trend-focused shopping destination where:

a.) Blending in is not an option
b.) Having fun is mandatory
c.) Everyday glamour is in full effect

Definitely designed with the ‘bold and the beautiful’ in mind, Caché dazzles with its selection of vivacious pieces, from curve-hugging floral frocks and brightly colored jackets, to adorable shelf-bra camisoles and comfy t-tops tailored to flatter your bottom line.

The best part is the site’s Get the Look feature, which lets shoppers virtually shop from its current catalog. If you like what the model’s wearing, just hit the mouse a few times and it’s all en route to your closet.

The site also has a sales section with markdowns of up to 50% off, plus a membership program that offers a 5% discount with each purchase.

Because even ‘big, bloomin’ sunflowers’ like a little bargain every now and then.

Spring Fling On Your Desk

Spring has finally sprung. And if this light, fresh weather has you pulling a Martha Stewart at the office, well, really, who could blame you?

Yes, it’s rather refreshing to see you approach a workspace organizing project with the zeal you normally reserve for big clients -- and sample sales.

So check out the office section at Organize.com, whose tag line “Clean. Neat. Easy.” will leave you positively breathless with anticipation.

And remember, when it comes to restoring order to your office this spring, it’s probably best to channel Martha with one of the cool products featured below -- and leave the glue gun at home.

• File awhile with sturdy binders, file boxes, folders and magazine holders in a choice of styles and colors. Looking for a coordinated assortment? Click here for collections.
  
  
• Mail and paper storage has never been easier -- see these stylish sorters.
  
  
• Tackle the travel monster on your desk with a great passport or document holder.
  
  
• Establish cord control once and for all with a handy dandy cord organizer.
  
  
• And for those of you who prefer take it all with you, rolling your entire office from client to client? Find smart-looking carts here.

A Few Good Men (For the Office)

You’ve heard the old expression, “You know a girl by the company she keeps.”

Well, if it’s true (and let’s face it, it usually is), here’s one sure way to be in great company -- be part of the Forbes Business Visionaries community.

It works like this:

Register for free access to the community. Once you’ve signed up, you can get involved right away.

Need an instant shot of visionary mojo? Watch a 5-minute video interview with one of several featured leaders.

Want to gab with other bright-minded people? Participate in a peer-to-peer discussion.

Got some thoughts of your own? Submit questions for the upcoming business visionary interviews.

And be sure to order a your free copy of a business visionary’s latest book, such as Steven Levitt and Stephen Dubner’s Freakonomics or John Kao’s Innovation Nation. (Hurry – offer good only while supplies last).

Finally, here’s a way to be known as the one who always seems to know the latest and greatest when it comes to the business of being in business.

And that’s the sort of company that is always welcome.

The Heart of an ROI

Taking handouts is not your style (unless they’re free ones from the makeup counter).

Nope, you’ve never been handed anything on a silver platter -- you’ve earned it.

And when it comes to helping the poor, sometimes handouts don’t work for you, either.

Because you don’t believe in just handing a girl a fish. You’d rather teach that girl to use a fishing rod. Or better yet, loan her the cash to buy one.

Yup, you’re all over that.

Which is why you’ll be all over MicroPlace.com.

See, MicroPlace, the only website allowing everyday investors (like us) to invest in the microfinance industry, takes your investment and places it in people – specifically, the working poor, most of whom are women.

Your money goes directly to a microfinance institution in a developing country. Knowledgeable loan officers then qualify and make actual loans to people like single mother shop owners in Nicaragua and jewelry makers in India. You receive interest plus principal payments.

Owned by eBay, MicroPlace helps you put your savings to work in a place that can help save lives.

And that’s an investment with the best ROI of all.

One that goes far beyond the money to leave a lasting imprint on the heart – yours and hers.

Time Management with a Timeless Beauty

Wearing a watch is a practical matter for most busy women in business. But the iconic item really is so much more than just a schedule keeper.

In fact, it says eons about you.

So this Spring, make a lasting impression in seconds flat by getting yourself one of the season’s hottest accessories:

A charm-bracelet watch.

Whatever your style aesthetic (or time-management skills), there's a charming timepiece to woo your particular wrist.

Here are several styles sure to wind you up:

The AK Anne Klein Multi-Charm Watch is delicate with a vintage vibe. The gold-tone bohemian-ish bracelet features several antique-inspired hanging charms, including the star of the show: a mother-of-pearl watch face.

Looking for something fresh but not too trendy? Try the Dufonte by Lucien Piccard ‘Precious’ Charm-Bracelet Watch. With a cross, stars and watch encased in a key-shaped heart, anchored by a rolo-link chain bracelet, this beauty is one piece sure to stand the test of time.

The Marc By Marc Jacobs Padlock Bracelet Watch, which comes in gold and silver, is sleek and ultra cool with chunky bracelet and hanging padlock and key charm. Fashionistas will go gaga for this chic stunner.

Fashion at Her Best – The Mother Nature Way

With Earth Day right around the corner, it's time to put your green where your mouth (and entire body) is.

To that eco end, you’ll want to put together an earth-friendly ensemble and prove that taking fashion advice from Mother Nature can be even more valuable than heeding the word of Mr. “Make It Work", Tim Gunn himself.

Start off with a pair of Del Forte jeans, available in an array of chic styles. All denim, made of pesticide-free organic cotton, is born and made in the U.S. Your booty will look divine and the planet will be no worse for the wear—literally.

On top, opt for a funky Beau Soleil shirt or tunic. We're particularly smitten with the Beau Boat shift with demure stud detailing. This green label focuses on using sustainable and organic materials, recycled leathers, and fair trade and labor.

As for the all-important accessories: Add A-list style with a pair of vegan shoes from Natalie Portman's new footwear collection for Té Casan. (You can't go wrong with the Pixie, a satin ballet flat.)

Arm candy? Grab a fun, reusable (and waterproof) Envirosax tote.

And now that you're eco-liciously garbed, you may just find yourself heading out there to plant a tree. Who says fashion doesn’t pay back?

The Fabulous Online Guide to a Green Office

A smart girl like you knows that being green means toting a...no, not that kelly green patent bag you saw last week... it means toting a full-time eco-attitude.

Not just tomorrow -- on Earth Day -- when it’s fashionable, but every day.

It means making lots of little choices -- like, cutting the lights when you step out or buying baubles from a fair-trade vendor -- that help create a healthier planet.

So here’s one more way:

Go green in your office with the fabulous online Office Depot Guide to Buying Green.

This super informative site makes it easy to make purchasing decisions that match your eco-outlook.

Say you need to buy paper. But there are so many choices, and really, who’s got a ton of time to figure out which paper is greener -- the one with higher recycled content, or the one made from sustainably harvested forests?

The Office Depot site simplifies things by pointing you toward Earth-friendly paper, explaining which choices are greener than others.

Plus you can find other things like non-toxic markers and highlighters, recycled calendars, remanufactured ink cartridges, and lots more.

Now you have a one-stop source for buying the things you use at work, while doing good for the planet.

It just got a lot easier being green.

The Perfect Bag For You

It’s Earth Day.

So, naturally, you’re expecting us at Uptown Scoop -- your trusted (and favorite) source of what’s hip, hot and new on the Net -- to turn you on to some green thing that’s really cool.

And, naturally, we will.

Eco-friendly bags.

“What???” you say, “Eco-friendly bags?? Uh, we were sort of hoping for something a tad more stylish...this is definitely not the chic arm candy we had in mind.”

OK girlfriends, don’t get your carrot tops in a bunch. We’re not talking bags for Thursday night drinks with the girls or Friday night let’s go out to see-and-be-seen.

We’re talking reusable shopping bags.

Now that you’ve reframed your thinking, let’s get back to eco-friendly bags. Here are a few that will carry your purchases with aplomb – time after time:

The bright and fun Baggu Bags are perfect for everything from a quick run to the shoe store to a serious shopping spree at the market.

Check out BagTheHabit.com. These bags have enough strength for heavy groceries while their classic looks are chic enough for any boutique.

Urban Outfitters’ Reuse Me Tote takes a cheeky approach to conservation.

A “Reduce, Recycle, Renew” bag, with its double-rope handles and slightly nautical air, keeps the message simple.

Wanted: Incredible Women

Wanted:

Incredible women who are making it happen by making a difference. Candidates must symbolize the statement once made by Tom Brokaw:

“It’s easy to make a buck. It’s a lot tougher to make a difference.”

Some women have an unwavering commitment to a cause, then work with feverish devotion for this greater good, never taking, but always giving, giving, giving, and day after long, grueling day, giving some more.

Know a woman who fits that bill? Well, then, she just might deserve the title of “Woman of Worth” for 2008."

The honorary title, bestowed by L’Oreal Paris, will go to an inspiring volunteer, outstanding achiever and through-and-through beautiful person who is truly making a difference in her community.

Visit the site by June 16, and make a nomination by sharing the story of a Woman of Worth whose volunteer work is making a beautiful difference. If she wins, L’Oreal will donate $5,000 to her charitable cause, as well as another $5,000 to The Ovarian Cancer Research Fund.

One big-kahuna winner receives another $25,000 for her charity.

It starts with you. Just think what a difference you can make, simply by nominating her.

P.S. Click here to see 2007 winners.

Fashion For the Star in You

Long gone are the days of stealing...okay, well, borrowing your beau’s classic white t-shirt to pair with your favorite denims in an effort to achieve that flawlessly cute, casual look.

Now there’s a new guy to turn to for tees: Michael Stars.

But don’t be fooled by the word ‘tee-shirt’.

With an array of colors and designs that range from sporty, basic tee-shirts to classy tee-dresses, this line offers completely comfortable class whether at work or play. A few of our faves:

Bend the rules of 9-to-5 fashion by foregoing that plain, white button-down blouse and opting to pair those loose fitting-khakis with the Supima Elbow puff Sleeve Shirt.

To jazz up your favorite 10-year-old jeans or add some spice to that deal-closing pant suit, try the Shine Swing Top. Made from the Michael Stars signature shine fabric, this one demonstrates a divine sense of style.

Forget packing an extra bag for that Friday-after-5 change of clothing. Instead, spice up casual Friday with a V-neck Dolman Sleeve Dress. This little number offers an easy transition from the office straight into evening play.

Best of all? Michael Stars’ are machine washable. Now you can afford that extra little something with the money saved on your dry cleaning bill.

To Elevate Your Style IQ, Go Flat

Pumping up the volume may be the way to go some days, but when you’ve really got to get ahead, flat is in.

Yeah, baby, give your tootsies a break from all those teeter-inducing stilettos and wobbly wedges, and slip into a pair of comfy and covetable sandals. Sans heels, of course.

Strolling in flat treads makes for the ideal spring road trip, whether you're headed to work, playground or hotspot. Check out these hot wheels—and then floor it.

Flowers epitomize spring, making Anthropologie's Two Roses Flats perfect for planting your pedicured toes. The deep-red patent sandals, graced with pretty primrose blossoms, make every outfit bloom.

We declare Bandolino's Charla slingback the LBS (Little Black Sandal). The classic patent sandal (also available in white and pink), with her textured, knotted vamp, will surely be your go-to girl all season long.

Pair these Pour La Victoire’s in fuschia with a denim mini or a sleek white sheath for an instant shot of wow.

This Max Studio VISTA in black patent with jewels is sure to put any activity – pleasure or otherwise - in overdrive. Hit it, girl.

Start Me Up Already

Either you’ve already started up a new business, or you’ve got a traffic-stopper of an idea.

In either case, despite loads of experience, and endless reserves of passion, to ensure your big idea makes it all the way to a big business, you’re always looking for help.

So where does a smart girl go?

One very cool source is StartupNation, created by brothers

Rich and Jeff Sloan, serial entrepreneurs, radio hosts and authors.

As the Sloan brothers point out, the number of people who dream of starting a business is vast. But the number of people who actually do it? Not so much. The difference is that some people seek out the knowledge it takes to start and run a business.

Being the seeker you are, you’ll likely dive right in at StartupNation. There’s tons of info whether you’re a seasoned biz owner or a budding entrepreneur.

Start with the video tutorials that lay out the 10 steps to open a business. Hop on a forum to get advice from or share tips with other entrepreneurs. Or tune in to StartupNation Radio for topics like “Starting an eBay business” and “Financing your business.”

And if you’re not planning a start-up? Tune in later this year when they launch StartupNation video online - these guys look pretty cute.

(We did not just say that, did we??)